Switching Device Latch Triggering Mechanism for Compact Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional switching devices with locking mechanisms are bulky, leading to space constraints and potential safety hazards due to protruding parts, and existing solutions do not adequately address the need for a compact and secure locking system.
Innovation Solution
A switching device with a latch triggering mechanism that includes a cam coupled to a handle, allowing the latch to engage or disengage at a right angle with a recess to lock or unlock the switch, and an optional padlock for additional security, enabling secure operation without increasing the device's thickness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional locking mechanisms are used in switching devices, then the locking function is achieved, but the device thickness increases and protruding parts are created
Solution Approach 1:
The latch moves perpendicular to the handle movement direction, engaging with the recess in a different dimensional plane. This allows the locking function to be achieved without increasing the device thickness in the direction of handle movement, effectively utilizing spatial dimensionality to resolve the contradiction between locking reliability and compact form factor.
Solution Approach 2:
The latch mechanism is nested within the housing structure, with the latch engaging into a recess that is part of the housing. This nesting approach allows the locking components to be contained within the existing device footprint, preventing protruding parts while maintaining the locking function.
2Reliability
If conventional locking mechanisms are used in switching devices, then the locking function is achieved, but space constraints are violated and obstructions are created
Solution Approach 1:
By changing the dimensional plane of latch movement to be perpendicular to handle movement, the locking mechanism achieves its function within the existing device footprint without creating protruding parts that would occupy additional space or create obstructions.
Solution Approach 2:
The latch mechanism is integrated into the housing structure, with the recess formed as part of the housing itself. This merging of components eliminates the need for separate locking structures that would increase the device footprint, while still providing secure locking functionality.
3Length of stationary object
If a compact locking mechanism is used, then space constraints are satisfied, but the locking security may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The perpendicular movement of the latch into the recess creates a robust locking action that engages at right angles, providing strong mechanical security. This dimensional approach allows the compact latch to achieve reliable locking without requiring the thickness of conventional mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The cam is designed to automatically position the latch in the correct orientation and drive it into the recess as the handle is pulled. This preliminary positioning action ensures that the latch engages securely with the recess, maintaining locking reliability despite the compact size of the mechanism.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution provides a compact and secure locking mechanism that prevents accidental operation while maintaining a low profile, enhancing safety and usability in space-constrained environments.
Implementation Method 1
The latch triggering mechanism comprises the cam coupled to the handle, said cam is moveable between a first direction and a second direction in concert with the handle during the handle displacement between the resting position and the elevated position.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention is directed to a switching device (100) operable between different setpoints for changing the state of operations of an electrical system comprising a housing (104) with a recess (110) formed on an inner perimeter surface of said housing (104) at any set-point of the switching device (100). The knob (116) is disposed within the housing (104), said knob (106) includes a latch (108) and a latch triggering mechanism, said latch (108) is selectively releasable from the knob (106) by the latch triggering mechanism to engage into or from the recess (110) for locking or unlocking the switching device (100). The knob (106) further includes a handle (102) adapted for displacement between a resting position and an elevated position for controlling the latch triggering mechanism.